Natalie Winters, a 24-year-old White House correspondent and co-host of Steve Bannon’s War Room on Rumble, faced a professional setback after the National Press Club denied her membership.
The rising conservative media star shared her frustration on social media Wednesday, posting a screenshot of the rejection email from the century-old institution. The Natalie Winters National Press Club saga has since ignited discussions about bias in journalism circles.
Winters expressed disbelief at the decision. “I co-host a top show on the right, Presidents and Congressmen share my work, and I hold a White House Press pass,” she wrote. “Yet, I’m not qualified for their club.”
The rejection email was brief, stating her application was reviewed by the membership committee and Board of Governors but did not meet their standards. In response, Winters suggested political bias drove the outcome, telling The New York Post, “They should rename it the National Propaganda Club.”
She pointed to struggling mainstream media outlets, noting the club “could have used my dues” amid layoffs and declining ratings. The controversy has only amplified her profile among supporters who see the Natalie Winters National Press Club rejection as proof of exclusion against conservative voices.
Controversial Rise and Press Club Stance
Winters has built a notable presence in political media despite her young age. Co-hosting War Room, a podcast with millions of listeners, she challenges mainstream narratives daily. Her bold style has sparked both praise and criticism.
Earlier this year, her White House Press Briefing Room debut drew online backlash over her outfit: a white chevron leather mini skirt and black sweater. Critics called it “unprofessional,” with one saying, “This isn’t high school, it’s a privileged role.”
Her social media activity has also fueled debate. Winters has labeled herself “transphobic,” posted attacks on transgender individuals, and faced “Islamophobic” accusations after claiming on Piers Morgan Uncensored that Islam is “conducive to pedophilia.”
Another moment came when she mocked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on X, posing in a red dress with the caption, “I really don’t care, do you?” The phrase echoed Melania Trump’s 2018 jacket controversy.
The National Press Club addressed the Natalie Winters National Press Club denial in a statement to The New York Post.
A spokesperson said, “We have a consistent process for reviewing applications, aligned with our journalism standards. We don’t comment on individual cases out of respect.” Full membership costs $704 yearly or $59 monthly, with discounted rates of $400 annually or $34 monthly for young journalists like Winters.
Born in Los Angeles and a University of Chicago graduate, Winters remains a War Room fixture. While the rejection stings, it has rallied her base, who view it as a badge of honor.
